Some dog breeders mistakenly believe that large dogs with long legs are aggressive and uncontrollable animals. In fact, the big pets are gentle and friendly. They do an excellent job with the role of nannies and reliably protect the owner’s home from strangers. In addition, large dogs have high intellectual abilities and do not need long-term training.
Features
There is no official division of dogs by height and weight. However, experts distinguish large, medium and small breeds. The International Cynological Organization recognized more than 300 animals with long legs, which are classified by type and character into 10 groups. If the height of the dog at the withers is more than 60 cm, and the weight (in adulthood) is 40 kg, then the pets are considered large.
The tallest dogs in the world have long limbs with wide paws. Animals can be graceful, or, conversely, have a massive trunk with thick hair. They are characterized by endurance, and many breeds have good health.
Advantages and disadvantages
Naturally, like other breeds, tall dogs have several advantages and disadvantages. The first include:
- friendly character;
- affection for households;
- courage and strength;
- easy learning.
Pets with long legs do not require a lot of physical exercise from the owner.
They behave on a walk on their own and become wonderful friends for single people.
However, animals have a number of "minuses." For example, a pet weighing 60-80 kg requires a large amount of food. The diet should be varied and balanced. Otherwise, the tall dog will suffer a constant feeling of hunger and lose activity.
Also, large breeds do not differ in longevity, in contrast to their small relatives. With proper care and proper nutrition, long-legged dogs live 6-12 years old.
Despite the shortcomings, many dog lovers prefer large breeds. They are loyal friends and brave defenders. Having a large dog in a private courtyard guarantees peace and protection. However, having a large pet, the owner must be aware of the considerable financial costs of maintaining the animal. Also, a tall dog should not be brought to residents of urban apartments - without proper space, the animal will fall ill and die.
Top of high breeds
As mentioned earlier, dog handlers distinguish 10 groups of large breeds. Among them there are graceful thin “handsome men” and strong guards with a smart “fur coat”. Top of the highest breeds is as follows.
Neapolitan Mastiff (65 cm, 80 kg)
Stately dogs, whose body is covered with folds, were bred in ancient Rome. Strong animals with an "iron" grip took part in battles with wild animals. The pet is quite whimsical in care and requires high-quality nutrition. "Neapolitans" are suitable for "street" life and perfectly protect the territory.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog (70 cm, 50 kg)
One of the largest breeds in the world. "Caucasians" have thick coat and strong wide paws. Animals are smart and hardy. Most often they are breeders living in the private sector. Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are patient with children and instantly remember different teams.
Russian Terrier (78 cm, 60 kg)
A shaggy tall dog, characterized by an athletic physique and lends itself well to training. Russian terriers of standard color successfully take part in exhibition activities and competitions among large breeds. Curly long hair adorns the entire body of the pet, therefore funny ponytails on the head are relevant for them.
Hungarian kuvas (80 cm, 60 kg)
The oldest breed of tall dogs with long legs. Large dogs were bred in Hungary to protect livestock. Animals are fearless and unpretentious. Kuvas is an independent and courageous pet who is able to protect the owner’s home from uninvited guests.
English Mastiff (80 cm, 75 kg)
Another giant of the mastiff family. In ancient times, this breed was used for military service and hunting for wild large animals. Despite the awesome appearance, English mastiffs are friendly and non-aggressive pets. The "giants" live for 6-10 years.
Leonberger (80 cm, 60 kg)
Fluffy, tall dogs were bred in Germany. Large dogs are still used as watchmen and defenders. Elegant appearance and long, shiny coat are the main trump cards of Leonberger. Animals get along well with children and can play with their favorite toy for hours.
Russian canine greyhound (85 cm, 48 kg)
Graceful graceful dogs were very popular among representatives of the Russian secular elite. Most often, they acted as assistants in the hunt. Thin dogs with long strong limbs have excellent eyesight and are able to instantly develop high speed. Russian canine greyhounds are quite wayward and cannot stand competition.
Serbernar (87 cm, 100 kg)
A big "good man" with smart eyes and thick hair will not leave indifferent even fastidious dog breeders. The breed was brought to Russia from the Alps and northern Italy. A tall, fluffy pet has a calm and patient character. It lends itself well to training and prefers most of the time impressively resting near the owner.
Serbernars do not like cats and dogs of decorative breeds. Also able to show aggression towards strangers. Such a meeting can end in disrepair. The average life expectancy of these large dogs is 6-8 years.
Irish Wolfhound (88 cm, 60 kg)
The graceful long-legged dog is distinguished by developed intelligence and titanic patience.It gets along well with small households. Despite the formidable name, dogs are not suitable for watchdog function. Representatives of this breed very friendly and peaceful.
The coat of the Irish Wolfhound is thick and dense, therefore, it requires careful care.
Great Dane (90 cm, 80 kg)
A thin, proud dog is the largest in the world. The breed was bred by German breeders and officially registered in 1890. Dog handlers came to the conclusion that the Great Dane have perfect proportions. A muscular body, long slim legs and a beautiful head shape are the main advantages of high dogs.
The hardy stately dog is an official symbol of the state of Pennsylvania.
They have tall dogs to protect their homes and have fun.
Despite the dimensions, large dogs love outdoor games and do not show aggression to children. Experienced dog breeders call the elegant dog "a gentle giant."
Dogs - champions
The highest dog listed in the Guinness Book of Records was Great Dane nicknamed Giant George. The pet lived in a family of Americans (Arizona). The height of the animal was 110 cm, and the weight was more than 100 kg. He lived for 8 years and died a natural death.
After the "departure" of Giant George, the tallest dog in the world was recognized Great Dane with the beautiful name Zeus. The powerful handsome man had impressive dimensions (height 111 cm, and weight - 80 kg). He lived the record holder in the state of Michigan (USA). The giant ate more than 10 bowls of dry food and 2 wet containers daily. The dog led an active lifestyle and was a local celebrity. The giant lived for 5 years.
An overview of some of the largest breeds in the world can be seen below.